Williams’ problem was that his drafting (and I blame him more than his staff) was all based on high-ceiling/low-floor players – mostly multi-sport athletes like himself. These players generally grade out as C-level prospects which leaves you with no room for error/injury.

Hahn is of course reversing that trading trend by moving veterans for multiple prospects. Certainly Kenny Williams was capable of doing similar, but his ego-driven draft fascination with athletes instead of baseball players was akin to doubling-down on every blackjack hand – you will get wiped out sooner even if you hit big once in a while. For every Tim Anderson there isn’t just a Keon Barnum, there’s also a Josh Fields, a Joe Borchard, a Courtney Hawkins, etc.

The good news is the draft strategy has changed. The most recent multi-sport athlete I can think of Hahn drafting was the water polo player, and that was in the 6th round where you can afford to start taking those gambles.